Image-based graphical code reader device with multi-functional optical element and converging laser targeting

ABSTRACT

A graphical code reader is disclosed. The graphical code reader includes control circuitry for the graphical code reader and a multi-functional optical element in electronic communication with the control circuitry. The multi-functional optical element includes a support structure and a monolithic imaging lens and target generating mechanism operably connected to the support structure. The imaging lens and target generating mechanism includes a lens and targeting structures for generating converging offset beams to feedback proper target distance. Laser diodes are positioned by the support structure such that laser light from the diodes is directed through the targeting structures to generate the converging offset beams. An imaging board is connected to the support structure. An imager is mounted to the imaging board and positioned to obtain an image from the lens.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is related to and claims priority from U.S.Patent Application Serial No. 60/287,658 filed Apr. 30, 2001, for“Image-based Graphical Code Reader Device with Multi-functional OpticalElement and Converging Laser Targeting,” with inventors Ryan Hyde andCollin Lewis, which is incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates generally to the field ofgraphical-code readers. More specifically, the present invention relatesto an image-based graphical code reader with a multi-functional opticalelement and with converging laser targeting.

[0004] 2. Description of Related Background Art

[0005] Graphical code readers may be used to scan various kinds ofgraphical codes. Users may greatly benefit from the use of graphicalcode readers. For example, many different kinds of data may be encodedin a graphical code so that a user may automatically obtain the datathrough use of a graphical code reader. This automated method forobtaining information typically is used in many different contexts.

[0006] As graphical code readers become more complex, more componentsmay be needed by the graphical code reader, which may cause thegraphical code readers to increase in size. Space in a hand-heldgraphical code reader is somewhat limited, and any reduction in the sizeand/or weight of the components of the graphical code reader adds to theease of use by the user. In addition, any reduction in the size and/orweight of the components of the graphical code reader may also reducemaintenance of the graphical code reader as well as the overall cost.

[0007] Current scanning technologies utilize several separate opticalelements. In order to allow the user to specify the code to be scanned,the device incorporates a targeting mechanism. This targeting mechanismis typically an integral part of the scanner and usually consists of astand-alone unit. In current laser targeting subsystems severalcomponents may be used. These components include components such as thelasers, optical collimators, scanning or fixed mirrors, lenses, anddiffractive components. The optical focusing mechanisms in currentscanner technology are similar in that they serve a single function,that of producing an image of the graphical code on the detector, andare typically separate from other mechanisms in the scanner. The opticalfocusing mechanisms are typically composed of fixed or scanned mirrors,lenses, and diffractive elements.

[0008] It would be beneficial if means were provided to reduce the sizeof the components of the graphical code reader. Further, it would bebeneficial if a multifunctional optical element were provided to reducethe maintenance of the graphical code reader and reduce production costsand complexity.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Non-exhaustive embodiments of the invention are described withreference to the figures, in which:

[0010]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an image-basedgraphical code reader device;

[0011]FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the reader device;

[0012]FIG. 3 is an exploded view of internal components of the readerdevice;

[0013]FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the optical element and theflexible circuit including the button actuators;

[0014]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the optical element;

[0015]FIG. 6 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the opticalelement;

[0016]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism;

[0017]FIG. 8a is an embodiment of a targeting image that may be usedwith the reader device;

[0018]FIG. 8b is another embodiment of a targeting image that may beused with the reader device;

[0019]FIG. 8c is another embodiment of a targeting image that may beused with the reader device; and

[0020]FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the support structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] A graphical code reader is disclosed. The graphical code readerincludes control circuitry for the graphical code reader and amulti-functional optical element in operation with control circuitry.The multi-functional optical element includes a support structure and amonolithic imaging lens and target generating mechanism operablyconnected to the support structure. The imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism includes a lens and targeting structures forgenerating converging offset beams to feedback proper target distance.Targeting light sources are positioned in the support structure suchthat light from the targeting light sources is directed through thetargeting structures to generate the converging offset beams. An imagingboard is connected to the support structure. An imager is mounted to theimaging board and positioned to obtain an image from the lens.

[0022] In an embodiment of the graphical code reader an illuminationboard is also included in electronic communication with the controlcircuitry. A plurality of illumination light sources may be mounted tothe illumination board for providing illumination of a target scanningarea.

[0023] A lens retainer may be included adjacent the monolithic imaginglens and target generating mechanism. The lens retainer includes aplurality of apertures operably positioned to facilitate operation ofthe monolithic imaging lens and target generating mechanism.

[0024] In a further embodiment, the support structure may also include apost for connecting the monolithic imaging lens and target generatingmechanism and the lens retainer to the support structure. In addition,the support structure may include a plurality of posts for connectingthe imaging board to the support structure to align the imager with theoptical element.

[0025] The support structure may include a channel between the imagerand the lens. The lens focuses the image of a target scanning area onthe imager through the channel. The imager may be a CMOS, CCD, or otherpixilated imaging device.

[0026] In one disclosed embodiment, the targeting structures eachinclude a prism. The targeting structures may also include a collimatinglens. Further, the targeting structures may include an image generatingsurface for generating a predetermined targeting image or apredetermined aiming pattern. The image generating surface may be adiffractive element.

[0027] Each of the targeting light sources may be a laser diode. Inaddition, each of the plurality of illumination light sources may be anLED, and the illumination board may be an LED board.

[0028] A hand-held graphical code reader is also disclosed. Thegraphical code reader includes control circuitry for the graphical codereader and a multi-functional optical element in electroniccommunication with the control circuitry. The multifunctional opticalelement includes an imaging lens and target generating mechanismoperably connected to the support structure. The imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism includes a lens having a predesigned field of viewand being aligned to provide user feedback indicating when the target isthe proper distance from the device and within the field of view of theimager. The imaging lens and target generating mechanism also includes afirst targeting structure for generating a first aiming pattern and asecond targeting structure for generating a second aiming pattern. Thefirst and the second aiming patterns converge within the field of viewto feedback proper target distance. A first targeting light source ispositioned in the support structure such that light from the firsttargeting light source is directed through the first targeting structureto generate the first aiming pattern. A second targeting light source ispositioned in the support structure such that light from the secondtargeting light source is directed through the second targetingstructure to generate the second aiming pattern.

[0029] The graphical code reader may also include a lens retaineradjacent to the monolithic imaging lens and target generator. The lensretainer includes a first aperture operably positioned to allow thefirst aiming pattern from the first targeting structure to passtherethrough. Similarly, the lens retainer includes a second apertureoperably positioned to allow the second aiming pattern from the secondtargeting structure to pass therethrough. A lens aperture is operablypositioned for the lens.

[0030] The first targeting structure may include a first prism, and thesecond targeting structure may include a second prism. In addition, thefirst targeting structure may include a first collimating lens, and thesecond targeting structure may include a second collimating lens.

[0031] The first targeting structure may include a first imagegenerating surface for generating a first predetermined targeting image.Similarly, the second targeting structure may include a second imagegenerating surface for generating a second predetermined targetingimage. The first image generating surface may be a first diffractiveelement, and the second image generating surface may be a seconddiffractive element.

[0032] A multi-functional optical element is also disclosed. Themulti-functional optical element includes a support structure and amonolithic imaging lens and target generating mechanism operablyconnected to the support structure. The imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism includes a lens and targeting structures forgenerating converging offset beams to feedback proper target distance.Targeting light sources are positioned by the support structure suchthat light from the targeting light sources is directed through thetargeting structures to generate the converging offset beams. An imagingboard is connected to the support structure. An imager is mounted to theimaging board and positioned to obtain an image from the lens.

[0033] A multi-functional optical element for use in a hand-heldgraphical code reader is also disclosed. The multi-functional opticalelement includes a support structure and a monolithic imaging lens andtarget generating mechanism operably connected to the support structure.The imaging lens and target generating mechanism includes a lens havinga predetermined field of view and being aligned to provide an image of atarget in the field of view to the imager. The imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism also includes a first targeting structure forgenerating a first aiming pattern and a second targeting structure forgenerating a second aiming pattern. The first and the second aimingpatterns converge within the field of view to feedback proper targetdistance. A first targeting light source is positioned in the supportstructure such that light from the first targeting light source isdirected through the first targeting structure to generate the firstaiming pattern. A second targeting light source is positioned by thesupport structure such that light from the second targeting light sourceis directed through the second targeting structure to generate thesecond aiming pattern.

[0034]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an image-basedgraphical code reader device 100 with a multi-functional optical elementand converging laser targeting. The reader device 100 includes a housing102 that surrounds the internal components of the reader device 100. Oneor more buttons 104 may be included on the reader device 100 for turningon and off various features of the device 100.

[0035]FIG. 2 is a side cross-sectional view of the reader device 100. Anillumination board 202 may have a plurality of illumination lightsources 204 mounted thereon to provide illumination for a targetscanning area. In the embodiments shown and described herein, theillumination board 202 takes the form of a light emitting diode (LED)board 202, and the illumination light sources 204 take the form of LEDs204. The LEDs are arranged upon the LED board 202 in a configuration toprovide an appropriate amount of illumination for the target scanningarea. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the various kinds of LEDsthat may be used and the many different ways in which the LEDs may beconfigured.

[0036] A multi-functional optical element 206 is in electroniccommunication with button actuators 208 through a flexible circuit 210.The button actuators 208 may be mounted to a collar 211. Themulti-functional optical element 206 is more fully discussed below. Acircuit board 212 comprises the control circuitry for the reader device100. The circuit board 212 is in electronic communication with an imager(described below). Typically the reader device 100 is provided powerthrough a power cord 214. However, it will be appreciated by thoseskilled in the art that various means may be used to provide power tothe reader device 100. For example, a battery (not shown) may be used toprovide power to the device 100.

[0037]FIG. 3 is an exploded view of internal components of the readerdevice 100. As shown, the optical element 206 includes a supportstructure 302. The support structure 302 includes a post 304 throughwhich an imaging lens and target generating mechanism 306 and a lensretainer 308 are placed onto the support structure 302.

[0038] The flexible circuit 210 may provide electronic communication totargeting light sources 314. In the embodiments shown and describedherein, the targeting light sources 314 take the form of laser diodes314. In addition, the flexible circuit 210 provides electroniccommunication to the LED board 202 and the LEDs 204. In addition, theflexible circuit 210 provides electronic communication to the systemelectronics board (not shown). The arrows shown in FIG. 3 illustrate howthe various components are assembled.

[0039]FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the optical element 206 andthe flexible circuit 210 including the button actuators 208. The opticalelement 206 shown in FIG. 4 is substantially assembled from the explodedview of FIG. 3. The optical element 206 includes a support structure302. The support structure 302 includes a plurality of posts 304 forconnecting the support structure 302 to other components of the readerdevice 100. The optical element 206 also includes an imaging lens andtarget generating mechanism 306 positioned as shown in FIG. 4. A lensretainer 308 provides apertures (shown in FIG. 4) as needed by theimaging lens and target generating mechanism 306.

[0040] An imager 310 is mounted to an imaging board 312 and operates toprocess the image obtained. As shown, posts 304 are used to align theimager 310 and imaging board 312 with the optical element 302. The termimager may refer to any solid state photodetecting device containing arelatively large number of light sensitive pixels that are arranged inhorizontal rows and vertical columns and that are capable of being readelectronically to provide a two-dimensional representation of the objectbeing imaged. The imager 310 may be, by way of example only, a CMOSdevice, a CCD device, etc., which are well known by those skilled in theart and commercially available.

[0041] The flexible circuit 210 may also be used to provide electroniccommunication between laser diodes 314 and the button actuators 208.Laser diodes 314 are commercially available and those skilled in the artwill appreciate the various kinds of laser diodes 314 that may be usedwith the embodiments herein.

[0042]FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the optical element 206. As shown,the lens retainer 308 includes apertures 316 for the targeting lasers.The apertures 316 also operate to reduce stray light. The lens retainer308 also includes a lens aperture 318 so that the image of the targetgraphical code may be viewed by the lens and the imager 310.

[0043]FIG. 6 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the opticalelement 206. FIG. 6 illustrates a channel 320 in the optical element 206through which the imager 310 obtains an image of the target graphicalcode from the lens. Those skilled in the art will appreciate anappropriate size of the channel 320 based on the lens 402, the imager310, etc. The channel acts as a fixturing mechanism for the lens and issized to meet optical requirements.

[0044]FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism 306. The imaging lens and target generatingmechanism 306 is a monolithic component wherein the following elementsof the imaging lens and target generating mechanism 306 are all formedin the same part. The imaging lens and target generating mechanism 306includes a lens 402. The lens 402 is used to focus an image of thetarget area, which includes a target graphical code when the reader 100is in use, upon the imager 310.

[0045] In embodiments shown and described herein, the imaging lens andtarget generating mechanism 306 includes two targeting structures 404.Of course, the number of targeting structures 404 shown herein isexemplary only. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the imaginglens and target generating mechanism 306 may only include a singletargeting structure 404. Alternatively, the imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism 306 may include more than two targeting structures404.

[0046] Each targeting structure 404 comprises an angled portion or prism406, a collimating lens 408, and an image generating surface 410. Theangle of the prism 406 is such that the light from the correspondinglaser converges on the target area, as will be discussed below. Thecollimating lens 408 collimates the light from the laser diode 314.

[0047] The image generating surface 410 is used to cause the laser lightto generate an image on a target. The image generating surface 410 is aninterference pattern generating or diffractive element, such as aholographic element that may include one or more diffractive gratings ora Fresnel type element which has been fabricated with the desiredpattern in mind.

[0048] An aperture 412 is formed in the imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism 306 for placing the imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism 306 on a post 304 of the optical element 206.

[0049] The targeting structures 404 generate an aiming pattern which isdefined and has a shape or configuration that facilitates the accuratepositioning of the target graphical code or symbol with respect to thefield of view of the imager 310. Typically the lens 402 enables the codereader 100 to be usable over a range of reader 100 to target distances.

[0050] The unique targeting structures 404 use converging offset beamsto feedback proper target distance. The beams from the targetingstructures are non-parallel and each projects a point or pattern ontothe target scanning area to be targeted. At the optimal target distancethe beams cross, and the projected patterns and/or points meet. Nearerand further than optimal target distance, the projected patterns and/orpoints do not meet. As the device 100 is moved further from optimaltarget distance, the user sees the projected patterns and/or points movefurther apart or to move further away from alignment. As the device 100is moved nearer to optimal target distance, the user sees the projectedpatterns and/or points move toward each other or more toward alignmentand ultimately become aligned when optimal target distance is reached.

[0051] Various materials may be used to form the imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism 306. Those skilled in the art will appreciate thedifferent materials that may be used based on design and cost factors.In one embodiment, an optical grade polycarbonate may be used for theimaging lens and target generating mechanism 306.

[0052] Advantageously, the multi-functional optical element 206 mayallow the reader device 100 to be more robust than known reader devices.Typically, the components that make up a reader device have lowtolerances. Because the reader device 100 disclosed herein includes amulti-functional optical element 206, the reader device 100 may be lesssusceptible to alignment problems normally associated with the shock andrigors of daily use.

[0053]FIGS. 8a-8 c illustrate various targeting images that may be used.The targeting structures 404 are used to generate a predeterminedtargeting image 502 a on a target surface 504 a. The image generatingsurfaces 410 are designed to generate the desired image 502 a on thetarget surface 504 c. As shown in FIG. 8a, one possible targeting image502 a that may be used is a circle 506 a with a dot 508 a in the center.With this targeting image 502 a, the diffractive element 406 is designedsuch that when the reader 100 is an optimal distance from the targetingsurface 504 a, the dot 508 a is substantially in the center of thecircle 506 a. With the targeting image 502 a of FIG. 8a, one imagegenerating surface 410 is designed to generate the circle 506 a whilethe other image generating surface 410 is designed to generate the dot508 a.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 8b, another possible targeting image 502 b thatmay be used is a cross comprising a horizontal bar 506 b and a verticalbar 508 b. With this targeting image 502 a, the diffractive element 406is designed such that when the reader 100 is an optimal distance fromthe targeting surface 504 a, the horizontal bar 506 b and vertical bar508 b intersect each other to form a cross. One image generating surface410 is designed to generate the horizontal bar 506 b while the otherimage generating surface 410 is designed to generate the vertical bar508 b.

[0055] Another possible targeting image 502 c is shown in FIG. 8ccomprising a circle 506 c and an X 508 c. With this targeting image 502c, the diffractive element 406 is designed such that when the reader 100is an optimal distance from the targeting surface 504 a, the X 508 c isaligned inside the circle 506 c. To generate this targeting image 502 c,one image generating surface 410 is designed to generate the circle 506c while the other image generating surface 410 is designed to generatethe X 508 c.

[0056] As shown, many different kinds of targeting images 502 may begenerated to assist the user in using the code reader 100 to read in agraphical code. The user may see when the reader 100 is at an optimaldistance from the targeting surface 504 a by seeing that the targetingimage 502 is aligned. FIGS. 8a-8 c illustrate various aligning targetingimages 502. Many other patterns or types of targeting images 502 arepossible and it will be understood that the embodiments disclosed hereinare not limited to any particular pattern or type of targeting image502. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art thatmany other targeting images 502 may be used to assist the user inplacing the code reader 100 at an optimal position.

[0057] Due to diode packaging tolerances, some commercially availablelaser diodes 314 may not emit laser light from the same position withinthe diode package as others. For example, one laser diode 314 may emitlaser light from the upper left corner of the diode package, whileanother laser diode 314 may emit laser light from the lower right cornerof the diode package. Such non-uniformity may cause the targeting image502 to be misaligned at the proper target distance. To address thispotential problem, laser diodes 314 to be used in assembling codereaders 100 may be examined and grouped according to the point fromwhich the diodes 314 emit laser light, and then diodes 314 from the samegroup may be used together in a particular code reader 100. For example,laser diodes 314 that emit laser light from the upper left corner of thediode package may be grouped together and used together in assemblingcode readers. Similarly, laser diodes 314 that emit laser light from thelower left corner of the diode 314 may be grouped together and usedtogether in assembling code readers. As a result, substantially uniformlaser diodes 314 may be used in assembling a code reader 100. Theprocess of identifying similarly operating diodes 314 may be referred toas matching, and laser diodes 314 from the same group may be referred toas matched diodes 314.

[0058]FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the support structure 302. Thesupport structure 302 includes laser diode apertures 322 for allowingthe light from the laser diodes 314 to pass through to the imaging lensand target generating mechanism 306.

[0059] Various materials may be used to form the support structure 302.Those skilled in the art will appreciate the different materials thatmay be used based on design and cost factors. In one embodiment, amaterial with a high dimensional fidelity is used. A glass filled nylon,such as krastin, may be used to form the support structure 302.

[0060] While specific embodiments and applications of the presentinvention have been illustrated and described, it is to be understoodthat the invention is not limited to the precise configuration andcomponents disclosed herein. Various modifications, changes, andvariations which will be apparent to those skilled in the art may bemade in the arrangement, operation, and details of the methods andsystems of the present invention disclosed herein without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A graphical code reader comprising: controlcircuitry for the graphical code reader; a multi-functional opticalelement in electronic communication with the control circuitry, themulti-functional optical element comprising: a support structure; amonolithic imaging lens and target generating mechanism operablyconnected to the support structure, wherein the imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism includes a lens and targeting structures forgenerating converging offset beams to feedback proper target distance;targeting light sources positioned by the support structure such thatlight from the targeting light sources is directed through the targetingstructures to generate the converging offset beams; an imaging boardconnected to the support structure; and an imager mounted to the imagingboard and positioned to obtain an image from the lens.
 2. The graphicalcode reader as defined in claim 1 further comprising an illuminationboard in electronic communication with the control circuitry and furthercomprising a plurality of illumination light sources mounted to theillumination board for providing illumination of a target scanning area.3. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 1 further comprising alens retainer adjacent the monolithic imaging lens and target generatingmechanism, wherein the lens retainer includes a plurality of aperturesoperably positioned to facilitate operation of the monolithic imaginglens and target generating mechanism.
 4. The graphical code reader asdefined in claim 3 wherein the support structure further comprises apost for connecting the monolithic imaging lens and target generatingmechanism and the lens retainer to the support structure.
 5. Thegraphical code reader as defined in claim 1 wherein the supportstructure further comprises a plurality of posts for connecting theimaging board to the support structure to align the imager with theoptical element.
 6. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 1wherein the imager is a CMOS device.
 7. The graphical code reader asdefined in claim 1 wherein the support structure comprises a channelbetween the imager and the lens.
 8. The graphical code reader as definedin claim 1 wherein the lens focuses the image of a target scanning areaon the imager.
 9. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 1wherein each of the targeting structures comprises a prism.
 10. Thegraphical code reader as defined in claim 1 wherein each of thetargeting structures comprises a collimating lens.
 11. The graphicalcode reader as defined in claim 1 wherein each of the targetingstructures comprises an image generating surface for generating apredetermined targeting image.
 12. The graphical code reader as definedin claim 11, wherein the image generating surface comprises adiffractive element.
 13. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 1wherein each of the targeting structures comprises an image generatingsurface for generating a predetermined aiming pattern.
 14. The graphicalcode reader as defined in claim 13, wherein the image generating surfacecomprises a diffractive element.
 15. The graphical code reader asdefined in claim 1 wherein each of the targeting light sources comprisesa laser diode.
 16. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 2wherein each of the plurality of illumination light sources comprises anLED, and wherein the illumination board comprises an LED board.
 17. Ahand-held graphical code reader with a multi-functional optical element,the graphical code reader comprising: control circuitry for thegraphical code reader; a multi-functional optical element in electroniccommunication with the control circuitry, the multi-functional opticalelement comprising: a support structure; an imaging board connected tothe support structure; an imager mounted to the imaging board; amonolithic imaging lens and target generating mechanism operablyconnected to the support structure, wherein the imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism includes: a lens having a predetermined field ofview and being aligned to provide an image of a target in the field ofview to the imager; a first targeting structure for generating a firstaiming pattern; a second targeting structure for generating a secondaiming pattern, wherein the first and the second aiming patternsconverge within the field of view to feedback proper target distance; afirst targeting light source positioned by the support structure suchthat light from the first targeting light source is directed through thefirst targeting structure to generate the first aiming pattern; and asecond targeting light source positioned by the support structure suchthat light from the second targeting light source is directed throughthe second targeting structure to generate the second aiming pattern.18. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 17 further comprisingan illumination board in electronic communication with the controlcircuitry and further comprising a plurality of illumination lightsources mounted to the illumination board for providing illumination ofa target scanning area.
 19. The graphical code reader as defined inclaim 17 further comprising a lens retainer adjacent the monolithicimaging lens and target generating mechanism, wherein the lens retainercomprises: a first aperture operably positioned to allow the firstaiming pattern from the first targeting structure to pass therethrough;a second aperture operably positioned to allow the second aiming patternfrom the second targeting structure to pass therethrough; and a lensaperture operably positioned for the lens.
 20. The graphical code readeras defined in claim 19 wherein the support structure further comprises apost for connecting the monolithic imaging lens and target generatingmechanism and the lens retainer to the support structure.
 21. Thegraphical code reader as defined in claim 20 wherein the supportstructure further comprises a plurality of posts for connecting theimaging board to the support structure to align the imager with theoptical element.
 22. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 17wherein the imager is a CMOS device.
 23. The graphical code reader asdefined in claim 21 wherein the support structure comprises a channelbetween the imager and the lens.
 24. The graphical code reader asdefined in claim 17 wherein the lens focuses the image of a targetscanning area on the imager.
 25. The graphical code reader as defined inclaim 17 wherein the first targeting structure comprises a first prismand wherein the second targeting structure comprises a second prism. 26.The graphical code reader as defined in claim 25 wherein the firsttargeting structure further comprises a first collimating lens andwherein the second targeting structure further comprises a secondcollimating lens.
 27. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 26wherein the first targeting structure further comprises a first imagegenerating surface for generating a first predetermined targeting imageand wherein the second targeting structure further comprises a secondimage generating surface for generating a second predetermined targetingimage.
 28. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 27, wherein thefirst image generating surface comprises a first diffractive element,and wherein the second image generating surface comprises a seconddiffractive element.
 29. The graphical code reader as defined in claim17 wherein the first targeting light source and the second targetinglight source each comprise a laser diode.
 30. The graphical code readeras defined in claim 17 wherein each of the plurality of illuminationlight sources comprises an LED, and wherein the illumination boardcomprises an LED board.
 31. A multi-functional optical element for usein a graphical code reader, the multifunctional optical elementcomprising: a support structure; a monolithic imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism operably connected to the support structure,wherein the imaging lens and target generating mechanism includes a lensand targeting structures for generating converging offset beams tofeedback proper target distance; targeting light sources positioned bythe support structure such that light from the targeting light sourcesis directed through the targeting structures to generate the convergingoffset beams; an imaging board connected to the support structure; andan imager mounted to the imaging board and positioned to obtain an imagefrom the lens.
 32. The multi-functional optical element as defined inclaim 31 further comprising a lens retainer adjacent the monolithicimaging lens and target generating mechanism, wherein the lens retainerincludes a plurality of apertures operably positioned to facilitateoperation of the monolithic imaging lens and target generatingmechanism.
 33. The multifunctional optical element as defined in claim32 wherein the support structure further comprises a post for connectingthe monolithic imaging lens and target generating mechanism and the lensretainer to the support structure.
 34. The multifunctional opticalelement as defined in claim 31 wherein the support structure furthercomprises a plurality of posts for connecting the imaging board to thesupport structure to align the imager with the optical element.
 35. Themulti-functional optical element as defined in claim 31 wherein theimager is a CMOS device.
 36. The multifunctional optical element asdefined in claim 31 wherein the support structure comprises a channelbetween the imager and the lens.
 37. The multi-functional opticalelement as defined in claim 31 wherein the lens focuses the image of atarget scanning area on the imager.
 38. The multi-functional opticalelement as defined in claim 31 wherein each of the targeting structurescomprises a prism.
 39. The multifunctional optical element as defined inclaim 31 wherein each of the targeting structures comprises acollimating lens.
 40. The multi-functional optical element as defined inclaim 31 wherein each of the targeting structures comprises an imagegenerating surface for generating a predetermined targeting image. 41.The multi-functional optical element as defined in claim 40 wherein theimage generating surface comprises a diffractive element.
 42. Themulti-functional optical element as defined in claim 31 wherein each ofthe targeting structures comprises an image generating surface forgenerating a predetermined aiming pattern.
 43. The multi-functionaloptical element as defined in claim 42 wherein the image generatingsurface comprises a diffractive element.
 44. The multi-functionaloptical element as defined in claim 31 wherein each of the targetinglight sources comprises a laser diode.
 45. A multi-functional opticalelement for use in a hand-held graphical code reader, themulti-functional optical element comprising: a support structure; animaging board connected to the support structure; an imager mounted tothe imaging board; a monolithic imaging lens and target generatingmechanism operably connected to the support structure, wherein theimaging lens and target generating mechanism includes: a lens having apredetermined field of view and being aligned to provide an image of atarget in the field of view to the imager; a first targeting structurefor generating a first aiming pattern; a second targeting structure forgenerating a second aiming pattern, wherein the first and the secondaiming patterns converge within the field of view to feedback propertarget distance; a first targeting light source positioned by thesupport structure such that light from the first targeting light sourceis directed through the first targeting structure to generate the firstaiming pattern; and a second targeting light source positioned by thesupport structure such that light from the second targeting light sourceis directed through the second targeting structure to generate thesecond aiming pattern.
 46. The multi-functional optical element asdefined in claim 45 further comprising a lens retainer adjacent themonolithic imaging lens and target generating mechanism, wherein thelens retainer comprises: a first aperture operably positioned to allowthe first aiming pattern from the first targeting structure to passtherethrough; a second aperture operably positioned to allow the secondaiming pattern from the second targeting structure to pass therethrough;and a lens aperture a operably positioned for the lens.
 47. Themulti-functional optical element as defined in claim 46 wherein thesupport structure further comprises a post for connecting the monolithicimaging lens and target generating mechanism and the lens retainer tothe support structure.
 48. The multi-functional optical element asdefined in claim 45 wherein the support structure further comprises aplurality of posts for connecting the imaging board to the supportstructure to align the imager with the optical element.
 49. Themulti-functional optical element as defined in claim 45 wherein theimager is a CMOS device.
 50. The multi-functional optical element asdefined in claim 48 wherein the support structure comprises a channelbetween the imager and the lens.
 51. The multi-functional opticalelement as defined in claim 45 wherein the lens focuses the image of atarget scanning area on the imager.
 52. The multi-functional opticalelement as defined in claim 45 wherein the first targeting structurecomprises a first prism and wherein the second targeting structurecomprises a second prism.
 53. The multi-functional optical element asdefined in claim 52 wherein the first targeting structure furthercomprises a first collimating lens and wherein the second targetingstructure further comprises a second collimating lens.
 54. Themulti-functional optical element as defined in claim 53 wherein thefirst targeting structure further comprises a first image generatingsurface for generating a first predetermined targeting image and whereinthe second targeting structure further comprises a second imagegenerating surface for generating a second predetermined targetingimage.
 55. The multi-functional optical element as defined in claim 54wherein the first targeting structure comprises a first diffractiveelement and wherein the second targeting structure comprises a seconddiffractive element.
 56. The multi-functional optical element as definedin claim 45 wherein the first targeting light source and the secondtargeting light source each comprise a laser diode.
 57. A graphical codereader comprising: control circuitry for the graphical code reader; amulti-functional optical element in electronic communication with thecontrol circuitry, the multi-functional optical element comprising: asupport structure; a monolithic imaging lens and target generatingmechanism operably connected to the support structure, wherein theimaging lens and target generating mechanism includes a lens and atargeting structure for generating a target beam; a targeting lightsource positioned by the support structure such that light from thetargeting light source is directed through the targeting structure togenerate the target beam; an imaging board connected to the supportstructure; and an imager mounted to the imaging board and positioned toobtain an image from the lens.
 58. The graphical code reader as definedin claim 57 further comprising an illumination board in electroniccommunication with the control circuitry and further comprising aplurality of illumination light sources mounted to the illuminationboard for providing illumination of a target scanning area.
 59. Thegraphical code reader as defined in claim 57 further comprising a lensretainer adjacent the monolithic imaging lens and target generatingmechanism, wherein the lens retainer includes an aperture operablypositioned to facilitate operation of the monolithic imaging lens andtarget generating mechanism.
 60. The graphical code reader as defined inclaim 59 wherein the support structure further comprises a post forconnecting the monolithic imaging lens and target generating mechanismand the lens retainer to the support structure.
 61. The graphical codereader as defined in claim 57 wherein the support structure furthercomprises a plurality of posts for connecting the imaging board to thesupport structure to align the imager with the optical element.
 62. Thegraphical code reader as defined in claim 57 wherein the imager is aCMOS device.
 63. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 57wherein the support structure comprises a channel between the imager andthe lens.
 64. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 57 whereinthe lens focuses the image of a target scanning area on the imager. 65.The graphical code reader as defined in claim 57 wherein the targetingstructure comprises a prism.
 66. The graphical code reader as defined inclaim 57 wherein the targeting structure comprises a collimating lens.67. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 57 wherein thetargeting structure comprises an image generating surface for generatinga predetermined targeting image.
 68. The graphical code reader asdefined in claim 67 wherein the image generating surface comprises adiffractive element.
 69. The graphical code reader as defined in claim57 wherein the targeting structure comprises an image generating surfacefor generating a predetermined aiming pattern.
 70. The graphical codereader as defined in claim 69 wherein the image generating surfacecomprises a diffractive element.
 71. The graphical code reader asdefined in claim 57 wherein the targeting light source comprises a laserdiode.
 72. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 58 wherein eachof the plurality of illumination light sources comprises an LED, andwherein the illumination board comprises an LED board.
 73. A hand-heldgraphical code reader with a multi-functional optical element, thegraphical code reader comprising: control circuitry for the graphicalcode reader; a multifunctional optical element in electroniccommunication with the control circuitry, the multifunctional opticalelement comprising: a support structure; an imaging board connected tothe support structure; an imager mounted to the imaging board; amonolithic imaging lens and target generating mechanism operablyconnected to the support structure, wherein the imaging lens and targetgenerating mechanism includes: a lens having a predetermined field ofview and being aligned to provide an image of a target in the field ofview to the imager; a targeting structure for generating an aimingpattern; and a targeting light source positioned by the supportstructure such that light from the targeting light source is directedthrough the targeting structure to generate the aiming pattern.
 74. Thegraphical code reader as defined in claim 73 further comprising anillumination board in electronic communication with the controlcircuitry and further comprising a plurality of illumination lightsources mounted to the illumination board for providing illumination ofa target scanning area.
 75. The graphical code reader as defined inclaim 73 further comprising a lens retainer adjacent the monolithicimaging lens and target generating mechanism, wherein the lens retainercomprises: a first aperture operably positioned to allow the aimingpattern from the targeting structure to pass therethrough; and a lensaperture operably positioned for the lens.
 76. The graphical code readeras defined in claim 75 wherein the support structure further comprises apost for connecting the monolithic imaging lens and target generatingmechanism and the lens retainer to the support structure.
 77. Thegraphical code reader as defined in claim 73 wherein the supportstructure further comprises a plurality of posts for connecting theimaging board to the support structure to align the imager with theoptical element.
 78. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 73wherein the imager is a CMOS device.
 79. The graphical code reader asdefined in claim 77 wherein the support structure comprises a channelbetween the imager and the lens.
 80. The graphical code reader asdefined in claim 73 wherein the lens focuses the image of a targetscanning area on the imager.
 81. The graphical code reader as defined inclaim 73 wherein the targeting structure comprises a prism.
 82. Thegraphical code reader as defined in claim 81 wherein the targetingstructure further comprises a collimating lens.
 83. The graphical codereader as defined in claim 82 wherein the targeting structure furthercomprises an image generating surface for generating a predeterminedtargeting image.
 84. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 83wherein the image generating surface comprises a diffractive element.85. The graphical code reader as defined in claim 73 wherein thetargeting light source comprises a laser diode.
 86. The graphical codereader as defined in claim 74 wherein each of the plurality ofillumination light sources comprises an LED, and wherein theillumination board comprises an LED board.
 87. A multi-functionaloptical element for use in a graphical code reader, the multi-functionaloptical element comprising: a support structure; a monolithic imaginglens and target generating mechanism operably connected to the supportstructure, wherein the imaging lens and target generating mechanismincludes a lens and a targeting structure for generating a target beam;a targeting light source positioned by the support structure such thatlight from the targeting light source is directed through the targetingstructure to generate the target beam; an imaging board connected to thesupport structure; and an imager mounted to the imaging board andpositioned to obtain an image from the lens.
 88. The multi-functionaloptical element as defined in claim 87 further comprising a lensretainer adjacent the monolithic imaging lens and target generatingmechanism, wherein the lens retainer includes an aperture operablypositioned to facilitate operation of the monolithic imaging lens andtarget generating mechanism.
 89. The multi-functional optical element asdefined in claim 88 wherein the support structure further comprises apost for connecting the monolithic imaging lens and target generatingmechanism and the lens retainer to the support structure.
 90. Themulti-functional optical element as defined in claim 87 wherein thesupport structure further comprises a plurality of posts for connectingthe imaging board to the support structure to align the imager with theoptical element.
 91. The multi-functional optical element as defined inclaim 87 wherein the imager is a CMOS device.
 92. The multi-functionaloptical element as defined in claim 87 wherein the support structurecomprises a channel between the imager and the lens.
 93. Themulti-functional optical element as defined in claim 87 wherein the lensfocuses the image of a target scanning area on the imager.
 94. Themulti-functional optical element as defined in claim 87 wherein thetargeting structure comprises a prism.
 95. The multi-functional opticalelement as defined in claim 87 wherein the targeting structure comprisesa collimating lens.
 96. The multi-functional optical element as definedin claim 87 wherein the targeting structure comprises an imagegenerating surface for generating a predetermined targeting image. 97.The multi-functional optical element as defined in claim 96, wherein theimage generating surface comprises a diffractive element.
 98. Themulti-functional optical element as defined in claim 87 wherein thetargeting structure comprises an image generating surface for generatinga predetermined aiming pattern.
 99. The multi-functional optical elementas defined in claim 98, wherein the image generating surface comprises adiffractive element.
 100. The multi-functional optical element asdefined in claim 87 wherein the targeting light source comprises a laserdiode.
 101. A multi-functional optical element for use in a hand-heldgraphical code reader, the multi-functional optical element comprising:a support structure; an imaging board connected to the supportstructure; an imager mounted to the imaging board; a monolithic imaginglens and target generating mechanism operably connected to the supportstructure, wherein the imaging lens and target generating mechanismincludes: a lens having a predetermined field of view and being alignedto provide an image of a target in the field of view to the imager; atargeting structure for generating an aiming pattern; a targeting lightsource positioned by the support structure such that light from thetargeting light source is directed through the targeting structure togenerate the aiming pattern.
 102. The multi-functional optical elementas defined in claim 101, further comprising a lens retainer adjacent themonolithic imaging lens and target generating mechanism, wherein thelens retainer comprises: an aperture operably positioned to allow theaiming pattern from the targeting structure to pass therethrough; and alens aperture operably positioned for the lens.
 103. The multifunctionaloptical element as defined in claim 102 wherein the support structurefurther comprises a post for connecting the monolithic imaging lens andtarget generating mechanism and the lens retainer to the supportstructure.
 104. The multi-functional optical element as defined in claim101 wherein the support structure further comprises a plurality of postsfor connecting the imaging board to the support structure to align theimager with the optical element.
 105. The multifunctional opticalelement as defined in claim 101 wherein the imager is a CMOS device.106. The multifunctional optical element as defined in claim 104 whereinthe support structure comprises a channel between the imager and thelens.
 107. The multi-functional optical element as defined in claim 101wherein the lens focuses the image of a target scanning area on theimager.
 108. The multi-functional optical element as defined in claim101 wherein the targeting structure comprises a prism.
 109. Themulti-functional optical element as defined in claim 108 wherein thetargeting structure further comprises a collimating lens.
 110. Themulti-functional optical element as defined in claim 109 wherein thetargeting structure further comprises an image generating surface forgenerating a predetermined targeting image.
 111. The multi-functionaloptical element as defined in claim 110 wherein the image generatingsurface comprises a diffractive element.
 112. The multi-functionaloptical element as defined in claim 101 wherein the targeting lightsource comprises a laser diode.